Vander Zee creates his images by layering oil glazes. The layers build depth and create a glow about the paintings, as light bounces off of the various levels. His work is inspired by the cultures and natural environments he has experienced through his travels: He cites Italy, the Galapagos Islands and the Ecuadorian rainforests as sources for his recent series “Sacred Earth” and “Visions of Paradise.”

Vander Zee has worked and shown his work internationally. His past exhibitions include contributions to Europe’s Centennial Celebration of the Arts in Vilnius, Lithuania and a solo show at the Saginaw Museum of Art in Saginaw, Mich. He also lived in residence at the Casa des Artes of the Itchimbia Cultural Institute of Ecuador and displayed his work at the national gallery. He was also involved in visiting artist programs in Signaghi, Republic of Georgia and Tallinn, Estonia.